Segments in this Video

Introduction: Caesar (02:18)


A quarter of the world lived under Roman rule in 52 B.C., but the empire suffered from a corrupt government. Julius Caesar risked everything to tear down that system and bring revolution to Rome.

Siege of Alesia (06:08)

In 52, B.C., 40,000 Roman troops were surrounded by nearly a quarter of a million Gauls. Caesar outmaneuvered the enemy to earn what is regarded as one of the greatest military victories in history.

Senate Turns Against Caesar (05:49)

Caesar was a soldier and powerful politician who spoke out against corrupt aristocrats. The Senate worried Caesar would return to Rome without disbanding his army.

Caesar Demands Term Extension (04:11)

Among the core principles of Rome’s Republic was that no man should hold too much power; Caesar demanded an extension without reelection. Senators recruited Gnaeus Pompey, hoping he would turn against his one-time political ally.

Rome Divided (03:37)

Senator Marcus Cato sent a letter demanding Caesar leave his army at the border and return to Rome. In December 50 BC, Pompey agreed to lead the Republic against Caesar. Lieutenant Titus Labienus abandoned Caesar and sided with the Republic.

Caesar Crosses Rubicon (05:15)

Caesar and part of his army reached the banks of the river that marked Rome’s border and the place where returning generals were supposed to disband their armies. Pompey abandoned Rome to Caesar’s forces on Jan. 17, 49 BC.

Battle of Dyracchium (06:02)

Pompey fled east to Greece. Caesar headed to Spain to destroy Pompey’s supporters, but his forces grew war weary; deserters were punished brutally. Caesar suffered a major loss at the Battle of Dyracchium.

Battle of Pharsalus (15:24)

Caesar retreated inland to regroup, moving his forces away from much needed supplies. He lured Pompey into battle, winning a decisive victory despite being outnumbered.

Age of Emperors (02:52)

Caesar’s victory brought an end to civil war and the system of government that had served Rome for 500 years. He made himself dictator for life. His reign lasted four years before he was assassinated in March of 44 BC.

Credits: Ancient Rome - The Rise and Fall of An Empire: Caesar (00:43)


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Ancient Rome - The Rise And Fall Of An Empire: Caesar

Part of the Series : Ancient Rome - The Rise And Fall Of An Empire
DVD (Chaptered) Price: $169.95
DVD + 3-Year Streaming Price: $254.93
3-Year Streaming Price: $169.95



This episode of Ancient Rome - The Rise and Fall of an Empire examines Julius Caesar's path to power. The general refused to disband his forces following his conquest of Gaul and waged civil war en route to becoming Rome's first emperor. Discover how the ruler of a quarter of the people on the planet took Rome to the edge of ruin.


Length: 53 minutes

Item#: BVL185554

ISBN: 978-1-64867-020-6

Copyright date: ©2006

Closed Captioned

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